[In the skit,] Actors playing contenders Herman Cain and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney were seated at the [debate] table, while Texas Gov. Rick Perry was placed in the corner of the set, Rep. Ron Paul (Texas) was banished to a parking garage, former Speaker Newt Gingrich (Ga.) and Rep. Michele Bachmann (Minn.) were put a broom closet, and Santorum in "a crowded gay bar in the Castro district of San Francisco."

Although Santorum, played by Andy Samberg, had only a limited roll in the sketch, he was portrayed as upset and uncomfortable.

Santorum has been a frequent target of gay-advocacy groups, who have denounced his stances on gay marriage and the repeal of the military's "Don't ask, don't tell" policy. Last month, the candidate said that the gay community had "gone out on a jihad" against him for his stance against gay marriage.

"I welcome the criticism, go ahead. I'm going to stand up for the values that made this country great," Santorum said.